A Northumberland FA statement read: "The NFA prides itself on being a fair, democratic and ethical organisation."

Northumberland FA's board and council added that the decision to revisit the case was a "necessary, proportionate and correct response to concerns raised both within the NFA, our member organisations and the general public.

"Our unstinting work in promoting and nurturing women's football, as well as our commitment to wider issues of ethics and equality, has won the NFA much praise and we are determined to protect that reputation."

Northumberland FA's equality policy

"The Northumberland FA, in all its activities, will not discriminate, nor treat anyone less favourably, on grounds of gender, sexual orientation, marital status, race, nationality, ethnic origin, religion or belief, ability or disability. The Northumberland FA will ensure that it treats people fairly and with respect and will provide access and opportunities for all members of the community to take part in, and enjoy, its activities."

Cummings made the comments to referee development officer May at a referee workshop event in March.

The 24-year-old asked Cummings about the possibility of officiating in the North East Sunday League and was told she "wouldn't be able to handle it".

An independent FA regulatory commission, led by solicitor and former Blackburn Rovers player Stuart Ripley, concluded Cummings was guilty of a breach of FA rules relating to "abusive and/or insulting language", aggravated because of a specific reference to gender.